BOLTON manager Sam Allardyce could be without six senior players against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

El-Hadji Diouf (hamstring), Tal Ben Haim (knee) and Abdoulaye Faye (toe) have already been ruled out through injury.

Kevin Nolan, Nicky Hunt and Stelios Giannakopoulos are all facing late fitness tests. Ivan Campo, however, is available again after suspension.

Gary Speed said: “We can still go down to Chelsea full of confidence and look to get a result. They had a tough game on Wednesday night and that might take its toll.

“Hopefully we can get something there. We’ve got to go to West Ham and play Aston Villa at home. They are not easy games, but we’ll be looking to pick up at least a point at Chelsea and cement that UEFA Cup spot.”

Assistant boss Sammy Lee added: “We need to pick ourselves up and we have been working very hard all week.

“We know the immensity of going to Chelsea but we are looking forward to it. They are a top side but what a great game to get back on track with.

 “Chelsea won’t be bothered playing games in quick succession. They’ll be used to that, and when we were in Europe last year it didn’t really affect us. I don’t think it will be too much of a problem for them.”

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho will be without Arjen Robben despite the Dutch winger making a good recovery from a knee injury.

Midfielder Michael Ballack remains doubtful with an ankle injury but Michael Essien returns after missing the Champions League win over Liverpool through suspension.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Diarra, Carvalho, Terry, Boulahrouz, A Cole, Bridge, Lampard, Makelele, Obi, Essien, J Cole, Wright-Phillips, Robben, Shevchenko, Drogba, Kalou.

Bolton Wanderers (from): Jaaskelainen, Hunt, Michalik, Meite, Gardner, Campo, Nolan, Giannakopoulos, Speed, Teymourian, Davies, Anelka, Thompson, Walker, Tal, Martin, Vaz Te.

Last season: Chelsea 5 Bolton 1

Key opponent: Michael Essien - Powerhouse midfielder drives Chelsea on

Prediction: Chelsea 1 Bolton 0 - Chelsea might have some tiredness in their legs but beating them at home is a big ask

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You can get 16/1 on Bolton winning 1-0 with Betfred. For this and more odds, click here.

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